Cuban Television is making a last-ditch effort to air the final week of the 2024 Volleyball Nations League, a crucial event for the men's national team as it aims to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Amid a wave of criticism over the absence of the national team from TV screens—despite broadcasting rights being paid for the Euro and Copa America soccer tournaments—network executives are in talks with the International Volleyball Federation to secure the broadcast rights for the Cuban team's four matches. This information comes from the sports-focused website Por la Goma.
According to a post on its Facebook page, there is still a chance to satisfy fans who follow the team coached by Jesús Cruz. The team's Olympic qualification hinges significantly on their match against Serbia on Wednesday, June 19, in Slovenia.
Cubans and Serbians are battling for the last available ranking ticket, with scores of 250.64 and 251.55 points, respectively. This match is deemed a "life-or-death" encounter, although subsequent matches could alter their standings.
After the clash with Serbia, the Cuban team will face host Slovenia, Bulgaria, and Poland—currently the top team in the world and considered the best squad at the moment. Advancing to the final phase of the competition is also at stake, though these matches will not count toward the Paris 2024 slots.
So far, Cuban fans have had to follow the team's performance through alternative means, often using precious internet data and dealing with the island's slow internet speeds.
Meanwhile, Telerebelde is broadcasting every match of the Euro and will do the same for the Copa America, indicating that network decision-makers have prioritized foreign events. They claim to have initiated negotiations earlier and are now striving to change the situation.
Cuba's Schedule:
June 19: Cuba vs. Serbia
June 20: Cuba vs. Slovenia
June 21: Cuba vs. Bulgaria
June 23: Cuba vs. Poland
Key Questions about Cuban Television Broadcasting Volleyball Nations League
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about the efforts of Cuban Television to broadcast the Volleyball Nations League and the impact on the national team and its fans.
Why is Cuban Television struggling to broadcast the Volleyball Nations League?
Cuban Television is facing challenges due to the high cost of broadcasting rights and prioritizing other major sporting events like the Euro and Copa America soccer tournaments.
What is at stake for the Cuban men's national volleyball team in the Nations League?
The Cuban men's national volleyball team is vying for a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Their performance in the Nations League, especially the match against Serbia, will significantly impact their chances.
How are Cuban fans currently following the national team's matches?
Cuban fans have resorted to alternative means, such as using internet data and enduring slow internet speeds, to keep track of the national team's performance.